The Werribee Blood Donor Centre is in need of donors, after 1400 people who signed up to donate blood this month cancelled or rescheduled their appointments.
More than 40 per cent of potential donors simply did not show up to the Bridge Street centre or asked to move their donation session to another day, according to the centre.
Lifeblood spokesperson Cath Stone said during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic Australians responded strongly to appeals for blood donors, but now only one in every two appointments was being kept across the nation.
This has left 44,000 donor appointments vacant this month.
“Australians are enjoying holidays, catching up with friends and family, and getting back to every day outings, but the need for blood never stops,” Ms Stone said.
“In fact, annual demand for blood is at its highest level in over a decade, with hospitals now using four per cent more blood than they did compared to the last two years.
“We understand that plans change so if you do need to cancel or reschedule, please contact Lifeblood as early as possible so we can find someone to take your place.”
Ms Stone said hospital patients were constantly in need of blood for cancer treatment, surgery, blood disorders and obstetrics.
“There is no substitute for blood and we need every type, every day, to meet the needs of Australian patients who depend on it,” she said.
The Werribee Blood Donor Centre is open Monday from 1-7.30pm, Tuesday 9am-7.30pm, Thursday 12-7.30pm, Friday 7.30am-3pm and Saturday/Sunday 8am-3.30pm.
Donors can check their eligibility to donate blood online.
To book a donation please call 13 14 95, visit lifeblood.com.au or download the free Donate Blood app.
